Premier Mao Chi-kuo visited the Footwear & Recreation Technology Research Institute (FRT) at Taichung today and affirmed its vigorous efforts to enhance research and development (R&D) of shoe, bag, suitcase and mobility assistive device manufacturing.
Mao conveyed the importance of mobility assistive devices for the elderly and the disabled by stating the example of his grandmother, who had difficulty moving independently because of her bound feet.
After General Manager Liu Pao-pao's briefing about the FRT and the services it provides, the premier said that he has faith in Taiwan's production capabilities in related industries. He encouraged these industries to not only serve Taiwanese but also create their own brands, get foreign orders through international organizations for the impaired, and open the global market by means of e-commerce.
Concrete achievements have been made in the design and development of assistive devices since the FRT's establishment in 1991, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) said. In recent years, the institute has implemented many related guidance projects and plans commissioned by the MOEA, Ministry of Health and Welfare, and Ministry of Labor. These projects included technology and product development and transfers, product design, production of customized personal assistive devices, and personnel and vocational training. In the future, the government will encourage cooperation between industries and academia to upgrade the entire sector.